Section I, Next Section
Posted on Friday, 19 April 2002
In the interminable weeks before the long-awaited wedding was to take place, Darcy found himself wearing a deepening path between Netherfield and Longbourn, usually with Bingley in tow, sometimes alone. Throughout the course of his engagement he had followed a steady and determined course of extracting his fiancé from the bosom of her family and taking her on long walks, or if the weather proved prohibitive, on long drives.
As much as he valued the importance of Elizabeth's family, he simply knew himself not capable of courting her properly amongst those relations whose constant presence did neither of them justice. He had learnt to bear them with equanimity, but found that Elizabeth could not on his behalf. He was absolutely certain that he had withstood the worst that Mrs. Bennet could deliver, but was painfully aware that Elizabeth was always on the alert for some misdemeanor from any of her family. Though she denied it vehemently, it was quite obvious that she was less animated and more silent than she was when they were alone or in more agreeable company. His constant reassurances that he loved her for herself alone did not seem to penetrate her reason, and she continued to think that any offence by one of her family should immediately change his mind and have him hieing off to Pemberley. Although he admired her greatly for her intelligence, he could not deny that sometimes his fair Elizabeth was completely irrational. The knowledge that he had pursued her relentlessly and without encouragement and then persevered in the face of a very active dislike, seemed to bear no weight. She seemed to allow no latitude either for the fact that since he had met her, he had become less serious, and less judgmental of others. In his own mind he had reached a point of understanding some months ago that if Mrs. Bennet chose to be a fool then it would not affect him, nor darken his opinion of Elizabeth.
Still, the fact remained that no progress was to be made whilst they remained in the house, consequently the best solution was to be without. His reward for persistence was that their relationship had developed into one of ease and comfort, supported by a deep and unabiding love.
Having endured a long acquaintance with his own feelings the last months had allowed Elizabeth the opportunity of coming to terms with hers. It had taken a few weeks, but now she had lost all her self-consciousness of such a new and overwhelming feeling and fell into her easy playful self, teasing and being generally charming. Darcy had learned to be laughed at, but only at the hands of his fair Elizabeth, but the question remained whether Lizzy had learnt to be laughed at in return.
On one bright autumn morning, merely three days before their wedding, Darcy found himself so prompt in his arrival at Longbourn, that they departed the house for their regular morning walk before Mrs. Bennet had even descended the stairs. Darcy readily acknowledged that there were singular advantages in rising early besides the natural pleasure of seeing Elizabeth when she was at her liveliest. If he timed his day just so, he found that he could quite often escape the attentions of Mrs. Bennet until dinnertime. Elizabeth's love of outdoor activity was certainly beneficial to his cause and he often wondered if such an inclination had arisen from natural preference or prudent avoidance. Either way he chose not to question what was to his advantage. The morning was clear but rather cool, but Elizabeth was in high spirits and seemed keen to depart before Bingley and Jane were ready. Knowing Jane had no inclination for cold weather she did not apologise for leaving them behind. Nor was she backward in acknowledging to Darcy that she was a selfish creature and would much rather have him all to herself for the morning. In demonstrating her determination to be gone she took hold of his hand, before he could even greet her father, and fairly dragged him out the door. Darcy was not reticent but nonetheless surprised by her urgency. He had himself that very morning come to a resolution about the day's events and Elizabeth was providing a perfect opportunity of carrying his resolution to fruition. Naturally he offered no resistance and they set off on the long walk towards Oakham Mount.
Their ramble was conducted in silence for some time for he could sense that Elizabeth was agitated, about what he could not tell. To hazard a guess, with their wedding only days away, no doubt the activity surrounding the event had reached a crescendo.
"Are you well Elizabeth?" he asked in concern
"Certainly, why should I not be?" she replied rather sharply
"No particular reason you just seem anxious."
Poor Darcy she thought as she turned to look at him, his perceptiveness was highly gratifying but at the moment rather misplaced for in an indirect way it was in fact himself that had caused her present state of agitation.
Her mother had decided last night that with only three days until the wedding she and Jane should be forced to sit through a highly displeasurable and not at all informative narrative on the duties of a wife. Working off her own experience rather than any sort of textual reference, it merely served to give the two girls an unwanted insight into the workings of their parents not altogether successful marriage. Elizabeth found herself none the wiser, Jane was plainly confused, but both had found themselves awake most of the night trying to make sense of their mothers conflicting lessons.
Elizabeth's sole consolation from the lecture was that with this example of maternal instruction before her, she was greatly relieved that their mother had never attempted instruction on weightier subjects. If she could not grasp the basics of wifedom and motherhood after twenty-three years and five children, she would certainly have struggled with reading and writing.
When they had discussed it between themselves later in the night, they could reach no reasonable conclusion but that in three days time all would be clear and they would be free of such vexatious grievances. Her advice to Jane was that common sense and intuition would probably server better than trying to accommodate some of their mother's mystifying instructions, most of which she had never seen fit to apply herself.
The one point that had alternately amused and vexed Elizabeth beyond belief was her lesson on not exposing one's husband, or the servants to 'fits of womanly temperament'. According to her instruction, if one was feeling nervy or upset, then it was best to retire to your room for the duration so as not to cause alarm or discord throughout the house, or give the servants fodder for gossip. Elizabeth had suffered a severe attack of coughing at this point of the lecture, for she could not remember a single time when her mother had retired quietly to her room when suffering from a fit of nerves. The general result of her own not infrequent attacks was that the house was thrown into a consequent uproar, her father forced to flee to his library for quiet, and the servants disrupted by her never-ending calls for attention. Personally, Elizabeth disagreed totally with the idea of not informing your husband when you were upset by something, and if she knew anything of Darcy, he was always solicitous as to the state of her feelings. Still, she must not be disrespectful to her mother and so resolved to hold her tongue.
They continued on in silence for some time. The lady herself knew she was agitated but had resolved to walk it out. Her mind was still busy with ill thoughts and her partner was offering little relief. Maybe her last answer had frightened him off and he dared not speak? No that was ridiculous, Mr. Darcy was not afraid of her. In fact he was probably the one man in the world how could talk her out of a snit, and a good solid exercise of her wit was what she felt like right now.
In this aspect their characters were entirely complementary, for as much as she tried to best her fiancé with witty repartee the steadiness of his mind meant that he always had an answer, no matter how outrageous her words. Jane had always blushed and laughed over her silliness, she could not expect Mr. Darcy to do either, nor would she wish him to. Whether this was good or bad was a matter of conjecture, for his humouring her quite often led her down previously unexplored paths of silliness. She was not unaware that there were times when he cosseted her humour, but she fancied that he did not find the experience displeasurable. When he questioned her again moments later, she could do little but declare her vexation and hope that he would not require details.
"Is there anything I can do for you Elizabeth, would you care to go via the inn for some tea?"
"Mr. Darcy I assure you I am well and I suggest that you not press me further lest you get an answer that you do not wish to hear. Suffice it to say that I stand before you a very unhappy woman, but remain supported by the fact that in three days time I shall be your wife and shall be instantly transformed into the happiest woman in the world." She sighed and smiled wanly at him "In the interim I must endure."
Darcy knew enough of Elizabeth's personality not to take offence at her tone or the import of her words. He knew from experience that her frustrations were more often than not expended by some agile exercise of the mind. Distraction was the key, and he was game to provide the exercise.
"Forgive my mood Mr. Darcy, as you see I am subjected to trials and vexations at home which have left me more than a little frustrated."
"I am not offended, forthwith your grievances are mine and I will promise you to at least attempt to feel them as heavily as you do."
"Indeed," she turned to look at him in surprise. "Shall you be grieved that the lace on the hem of my dress is half an inch too short? or that there is not a piece of fish to be got in Meryton? Or being a man of the land you may be more interested to know that the chickens have become agitated by the activity in the house and have universally stopped laying."
Mr. Darcy looked obligingly grave as her responded, "These are heavy misfortunes indeed. I had not expected you would burden me so, but please continue, my back is strong and the more load I carry, the less that must rest on your shoulders."
Elizabeth laughed and began to feel more herself again. "That is a singularly attractive picture that you sketch. I had not considered you as a beast of burden, but the idea is not without its merits. Do you hire yourself out for labour or am I the only one able to pull your reins?"
"I think you know the answer to that already Elizabeth, that privilege shall be reserved for you alone."
"Indeed! Well I shall very much like to have such a beast at my command then." She replied with an arch look "I think I shall like being married to you very much, Mr. Darcy."
Darcy was lost for words momentarily as he attempted to comprehend just what she had in mind. Nothing rational entered his brain and he resolved that a change of subject was probably in order. "Do you know what intrigues me most about you Elizabeth? You always say what is least expected."
"You admire my unpredictability then. I would not have thought that of you Mr. Darcy. I have been used to thinking that you give more credit for steadiness of character."
"I believe it is more the element of surprise that I find admirable. Unpredictability can certainly have its detractions but it at least has the benefit of making life more interesting," he replied a little uncertainly
"So am I to presume by this speech Mr. Darcy, that you are taking me as your wife so that I might make your life chaotic or just interesting?" she asked teasingly
Darcy did not respond immediately for he was amused by the rapidity with which her thoughts had fixed on an idea and led her to a far from accurate conclusion. He was not taking her as a wife for any such purpose but there were times when her intelligence and wit wreaked havoc on his penchant for steadiness and order. Surprisingly enough he did not find it unpleasant.
"Elizabeth you have a singular talent for purposely misconstruing one's meaning and attempting to make me confess to an opinion which you know is not entirely correct," he replied smiling
"You well know that it is a favourite habit of mine and as you so cherish it I shall forthwith concentrate my efforts on misrepresenting your opinions as much as I can. That at least shall make my life more interesting and rather challenging I should think."
"So you envisage that your life shall become dull with me as your husband," he asked concerned.
"Not at all, with such a subject before me how can I become dull. It will be my singular pleasure to surprise all of your friends and family by having you confess to opinions which are not your own. Lady Catherine I am sure will be highly gratified by my influence," she replied laughing.
He looked at her askance for a moment. She seemed to have worked her way out of her black mood and now was as good a time as any to consider the implementation of his plan. He was enough acquainted with Elizabeth's habits to know that unchallenged she would continue her frivolity until he conceded some sort of surrender. Today he had something a little different in mind, a more deceptive challenge that would hopefully result in the execution of his plan.
Turning towards her, he took her hands between his own and with a slight smile determinedly fixed his eyes on her own very fine ones, now becomingly alight with amusement.
"Let us understand clearly one opinion that I readily confess to. I love you dearly Elizabeth with all your little habits and relative opinions, but I declare that you will drive me to distraction with your conversation."
Taking her hands from his she laughed and feigned affront and continued walking. "Do I detect a hint of regret in your tone? Do I talk too much for your liking? Forgive me, I had forgotten that you preferred silence to idle conversation."
"Not at all. I would take your conversation over silence any day, it is the irrational logic of your thoughts that frightens me," he replied with a slight smile
"I see your point now, if you fear my irrational logic then you have deduced that I may one day inherit a command of conversation much like my mother's."
"This is exactly what I am talking about. I deduced no such thing and you know it. Your mind leaps from one idea to another, settling on whichever one may shock me the most." He replied laughing. "As for your mother I should not wish to consider your intellect in comparison to hers, for I fear their is no common ground to work from and the exercise should reflect no credit on either your mother or myself, and is more like to give offense to you."
"You are too good sir," she could not help but smile at his diplomatic reply.
Placing his hand over hers on his arm, he patted it gently in a deliberately condescending manner. "If in future however, your conversation should ever make that subtle shift from character dissection to outlandish gossip have no doubt that I will inform you. You have offered up your better qualities for my protection remember, and I fully intend to hold you to that promise."
Elizabeth laughed delightedly for this playfulness of Darcy's was something he was only beginning to show. "Well sir, you had best develop a method of silencing me then for just such an occasion."
"Yes I have considered that," he replied with a subtle smile. Elizabeth looked alarmed but made no reply
"you are surprised Miss Bennet."
"I confess I am, for your answer implies premeditation. I know I should admire your good character that always plans ahead for all necessary eventualities, but I am a little affronted that this flaw in mine has bothered you enough that you have dedicated hours to considering it." She replied in half laughing alarm.
Darcy smiled at her mortification before squeezing her hand. "There is nothing so sinister I assure you. My plan was formed only in the last five minutes of conversation."
She considered his reply in silence for several minutes for she could not allow her pride to be so easily massaged into supplication, but curiosity dictated that she give him the benefit of the doubt
"Very well, I shall accept that answer if you will let me hear this plan, and I might tell you if I think it shall be effective."
To her further surprise and mortification his reply was in the negative.
"I think not. As you know I prefer to keep my cards a little closer to my chest, that way the element of surprise is also mine."
She looked at him askance and they continued on in silence for some moments. This was not like Darcy at all. Was he teasing her or was he serious about her talking too much? Either way she was not entirely sure that she liked being at his mercy like this.
"I have silenced you then Elizabeth, believe me that was not my intention," he said mischievously.
"Puzzling me was not your idea of keeping me silent then?"
"No indeed, I had wished to keep you talking so that I may at least have the opportunity to try my plan and see if it is effective."
There was enough of a smile on his face to show her that he most likely was in fact teasing her. She didn't like it, but her curiosity was peaked and she was not spiteful enough to disappoint them both.
"Very well I shall talk of the weather until you find yourself sufficiently bored with my conversation. That is one subject at least on which I can talk endlessly and that will bring your plan to fruition quickly, for I prefer not to remain in suspense on such things. Shall I relate the vagaries of Hertforshire rainfall to you? Or would you prefer a comparison of the seasonal temperature averages." she turned to him raising a brow in challenge.
Darcy did not reply, for he did not, nor never would have, any interest in the weather in Hertfordshire. Thus she had offered him the perfect opportunity.
Taking her face in his hands he lifted it gently upwards so that he might easily kiss those lips he sought to silence. She offered no resistance when their lips met and he silently congratulated himself on the singular logic that had delivered two very satisfactory results with a single pleasurable action. For apart from wanting to silence her, he had for the past two weeks been trying to think of a way in which he might steal a kiss without frightening his fiancé with the strength of his admiration.
After some moments he reluctantly broke the kiss and stepped back. As pleasurable as the sensation was for himself, he was anxious to see how it was received. His heart skipped a beat on observing the look in her fine eyes, one he had not had the pleasure of seeing before. The darkened glow of what he dared hope might be passion was an unexpected benefit he had not foreseen, and his own countenance reflected his satisfaction at the success of his plan.
For her part, Elizabeth was pleasantly surprised by this sudden display of affection. She had been wondering for some time whether he would attempt anything beyond holding her hand and, shameful though it was to admit it, she was gratified that he finally had.
But the self-satisfied look that followed this not so spontaneous act did not go unnoticed, nor was it appreciated. Aroused passion aside, this would not do. Of all things, Elizabeth despised smugness, and here it was writ all over her beloved's face! Humph, she had always thought Darcy above such things.
The reason for such a display suddenly became painfully clear. He had bested her in their verbal wordplay and launched a deceptive attack on her personality in a feeble attempt to steal a kiss. What was worse she had fallen for it completely!
On the other hand it was highly gratifying to think that so much thought had gone into the execution of that kiss. It had been so long in coming, and actually rather pleasant despite its brevity, that she did not want to discourage him from further attempts.
She frowned as she considered her position. How was she to remove such smugness in his success, for such wanton hubris must not go unpunished, whilst at the same time encouraging a repetition of the intimate embrace that had been so long in coming? It was an incongruous challenge but she was not afraid, and whatever her vanity required must be satisfied.
In her most stern voice she addressed him, but the effect was not quite as she desired, for to her own ears her voice was more husky than she would have liked, and she was not entirely certain that her lips did not twitch up in a smile.
"Mr. Darcy, your plan is a good one, but it is not sound. It may temporarily silence me but in the long term it is more likely to have the opposite effect."
"How so Elizabeth?" he replied smiling
"If such behaviour as this is to be my punishment for assaulting your ears with verbosity, then I can honestly say it is more likely to encourage me to talk more. For I will gladly suffer my penance and I would hazard a guess that you would have no displeasure in inflicting it."
"Certainly not."
"Then you see the fault of your logic. Even a child knows that one can never use pleasure as a punishment. It only serves as encouragement and neither of us shall be deterred. Whenever you tire of my rambles you may silence me effectively without giving offence, alternatively if I shall be in need of affection I simply need talk of the weather. It will not work." She said earnestly looking up at him.
On seeing the smug smile disappear from his face she was gratified to see it replaced by something a little less self-assured, though not entirely despairing. Although her words had not directly refuted his advances her manner had been quite serious, and he suddenly found himself at a loss to interpret her reaction.
Turning away she made to continue their walk, not noticing the subtle fall in her companions shoulders as he reluctantly fell into step beside her in silence. Thus she had no idea that he had in fact been hoping for some further sign of affection, or an indication that his advances were welcome. He was frustrated and more than a little annoyed, for the heightened passion he had detected in her eye had given him reason to suspect that she did not find his embrace intolerable. But the consequent thorough rejection of the merits of his plan however, left him feeling more than a little deflated. For having made this first step with Elizabeth he did not intend to rest on his laurels. For his own part he had found the softness of her lips rather inviting and the warmth of her embrace anything but intolerable.
After some moments of walking in silence his frustrated thoughts were interrupted by Elizabeth's introduction of a new subject. He was now in no mood for light banter or idle chatter and found it a chore to attend to her conversation. So disconsolate was he that it took some moments before he perceived the subject.
"Did I mention to you Mr. Darcy that we had a full three inches of rain last month? My father was quite surprised for the time of year. Indeed it is highly irregular, one or two inches is all that we normally expect, but I suppose the temperature has been particularly warm and that may have had some effect. Do you care to venture an opinion on this or shall I repeat some other observations I have made?"
"Elizabeth," he said so sternly that she stopped walking and turned to look him in the face
"Yes Mr. Darcy," she replied somewhat uncertainly, the possibility that she had gone too far very real in her mind.
"You really do talk too much sometimes."
Having once proved the effectiveness of his plan and been denied the glory of it, he then proceeded to kiss her with an intensity designed to deliver a more lasting silence and prove beyond doubt that he was in fact correct. His lesson was long and thorough and by way of its being extremely pleasurable maybe a little too effective. When Elizabeth finally withdrew from his embrace, vanity aside, she had to concede his plan was a good one, for had her lungs not been starved for breath, the state of her faculties alone made her incapable of stringing two words together.
Mr. Darcy for his part rejoiced in his victory, but began to feel the danger of paying Elizabeth too much attention. Real superiority of mind not withstanding, he had suddenly learnt that in the course of rendering such thorough punishment, there are in fact times when it is impossible for a gentleman to keep his 'pride' under good regulation.
Both felt the necessity for a long walk in the cool morning air before returning to Longbourn, and at the risk of Elizabeth's virtue, neither felt secure enough to hazard further attempts at conversation. Thus they walked on in companionable silence, satisfied that vexations had been exercised and that neither was able to claim a total victory. By way of cooling their ardour, their respective attentions were focused on more mundane subjects. Elizabeth pondered the fact that she would never be able to discuss the weather again in mixed company. Darcy was gratified at least, that of this conversation, Lady Catherine would have no share.
Posted on Sunday, 28 April 2002
Much to Elizabeth's annoyance the next day brought on a steady and heavy rainfall that appeared to be well established in the vicinity of Longbourn. With such conditions outside she thought it unlikely that Darcy would venture from the comfort of Netherfield to spend a morning locked up with her family in their drawing room. No sooner had she decided this than her theory was proved wrong. For through the persistent drizzle, a tall figure appeared galloping up the drive on a rather impressively large black stallion and effected a skidding halt just outside the window. Annoyingly her heart fluttered just a little, but she forgave herself this bit of girlish silliness, for what woman wouldn't respond in such a manner to this rather attractive picture of such an ardent and determined admirer.
Although she was really glad to see him, his presence created something of a problem, for neither of them was easy when confined with her family. A number of possibilities for escape crossed her mind, but the appalling conditions precluded all of them. Walking out was impossible and travelling in a carriage would be unpleasant at best. On entering the room Darcy suggested it, but she would in no way put his grooms in the way of catching their death of cold for the sole purpose of escaping her mother. There was nothing for it, they would have to stay indoors and make the best of the situation.
Here began the beginning of a very uncomfortable morning for Elizabeth. The assembled group consisted of Mr. and Mrs. Bennet, their four remaining daughters and Mr. Darcy. It was not surprising that with the gentleman's sudden and damp appearance the talk naturally turned to a discussion of the weather and the relative unpleasantness of it all.
For Elizabeth this discussion made her more than a little uncomfortable. The events of the previous day suddenly became uppermost in her mind and she felt herself blushing to the roots of her hair. Naturally the assembled company was completely oblivious to her discomfort at the open discussion of such an innocuous subject. The exception of course was Mr. Darcy. He remained silent through much of the initial discussion and though Elizabeth kept her eyes cast down much of the time, she unconsciously knew that his steady and impenetrable gaze never left her. The one time she ventured a glance in his direction she could only detect the subtlest of smiles, but she recognized the look in his eyes immediately. For it was only yesterday morning that she had bechanced to see it, not surprisingly following a discussion on that very same subject.
Such was the consequence of her actions the previous day, she thought to herself, and she must now bear the punishment in discomfort. Gazing out the rain spattered window she did her best to ignore the conversation and instead reflected on the possibility that God was punishing her. Her shocking behaviour in actively encouraging Mr. Darcy certainly deserved some retribution, and the current circumstance would seem to be an appropriate exaction of vengeance.
While her sister Mary may have given this idea more weight, Elizabeth's rationality dismissed it almost immediately. This was England after all, so it would be a little presumptuous to interpret the current downpour as anything out of the ordinary. Never having being particularly adept at religious contemplation she found that she could not feel any remorse and so gave up the attempt entirely. She allowed herself a small smile that Mary's sermons had at least made contact with her agitated mind. Her sister would be gratified to know that such lessons were indeed remembered in times of distress.
Darcy had been watching Elizabeth in silent admiration for some time. Her blush was becoming in itself, but his knowledge of the reason behind it left him feeling slightly more amorous than was healthy in such a setting. Not trusting himself to approach her, he allowed himself the pleasure of watching her from afar. When she stood at the window he could not miss the sigh that escaped her lips and was more than a little curious as to what caused the smile that turned up the corners of her mouth. The becoming picture was enhanced by the subtle action of her toying with the cross that hung around her neck. Suddenly his mouth became dry and his breathing did not feel altogether regular. Why, he had no idea, but if he was to hazard a guess it may have had something to do with the memory of the place that the cross usually occupied. That tantalizing spot just above the soft skin of her ... Good Lord what was he thinking!!!
In an effort to contain himself he turned to his nearest neighbour, who just happened to be Mrs. Bennet, and determinedly engaged the lady in conversation. In his attempt to relieve his disturbed mind he latched on to the subject recently under discussion and proceeded in a narrative on the relative wetness of the ride from Netherfield, giving her an intimate account of which parts of the three-mile journey happened to be the dampest. The lady sat in stunned silence at being addressed in such a way by the formidable Mr. Darcy, which quite served his purposes, and so he persevered unhindered. He found himself to be describing puddles in great detail, but did not really care, for at the moment his main concern was to get his mind back in some sort of order. When he at last felt master enough of himself to hazard a glance at Elizabeth, he found the source of his discomfort looking down again and blushing furiously. Though his mind was now relieved, some primitive instinct, which he chose not to examine too closely, spurred him on and he continued in his narrative to Mrs. Bennet, expanding his discussion to the general weather conditions in Derbyshire. When he at last encountered Elizabeth's eye, he perceived that she was at least as disturbed as he had been shortly before and was at last satisfied to end his discussion. The look of passion in her eye was exactly as he had remembered and he was more than a little pleased in having managed to inspire it.
Later that night when Darcy considered his actions and motivations for this little interlude he was both amused and mortified. He was quite certain of his motive, he wanted Elizabeth to remember that kiss from yesterday in the hope that it might arouse the same discomfort he had just suffered from doing no more than looking at her. He was less pleased with his manner of achieving this however, for there was something a little odd about using her mother as a way of arousing Elizabeth's passion.
Mr. Bennet, being a studier of character watched the whole exchange with interest and amusement. That man was most surprised to see Mr. Darcy so enthusiastic in discussion of a topic that was quite obviously of little interest to his wife. On further consideration though he realised there was method in his madness, for it was one topic that would keep Mrs. Bennet relatively silent and would probably remove any desire by that lady to engage him further in conversation. On glancing at his daughter however, he found that the topic under discussion seemed to be of particular interest to her. Though she took no part in the discussion, she attended it eagerly and there was a definite blush covering the delicate skin of her face. Initially he had thought she suffered from nervous embarrassment, lest her mother should expose herself to Mr. Darcy, but on further observation found that this was not the case. The one time he managed to catch her glimpsing in the direction of her fiancé he perceived that the look that passed between them could in now way be misconstrued as embarrassment.
Mr. Bennet was vastly amused at the scene before him. That there was some conspiracy between the lovers was obvious and that it revolved around the topic under discussion was equally so. His wife remained oblivious to all that passed, as did Kitty and Mary and Jane. Settling himself in for some further observation he actually put his paper away completely and began to study Mr. Darcy in earnest. He found that he had completely underestimated the young man who he had once thought reserved and above his company. It was not the fact that he was actively monopolizing the conversation that surprised him, or that he was intentionally speaking to his wife. What impressed him beyond anything he had seen before, was that in the course of carrying out probably the most boring conversation he had heard in some time, Mr. Darcy had achieved the remarkable accomplishment of silencing his wife whilst at the same time disconcerting the usually imperturbable Lizzy.
At that moment the tea things were brought which provided a natural interruption to all that had gone before. Mr. Bennet more than satisfied with his entertainment for the morning, and with a newfound admiration for his future son in law, left the party to attend some business with a tenant. Mrs. Bennet busied herself about the tea in an attempt to escape Mr. Darcy and that man now felt himself safe enough to approach the object of his affections.
"You are unusually quiet this morning Elizabeth, you have not opened your mouth once this last half hour," he asked innocently
"I find the subject is not to my liking sir," she replied smiling
"I cannot deny I am disappointed. I had thought that it was actually a favoured topic of yours."
She looked at him archly, I hardly think it would be appropriate for me to start discussing the weather in front of my mother Mr. Darcy."
"I cannot imagine why."
Elizabeth was quite certain that Darcy was deliberately teasing her. The smile that played on his lips and his determination to engage her on the subject of her discomfort showed he had some inclination for provoking her. Never one to back away from a challenge she responded in kind
"I had thought Mr. Darcy that I was sparing your feelings by remaining silent, for I believed it to be you that could not stand such idle conversation. I see that I was mistaken."
"Quite so, I rather enjoyed my little chat with your mother. There is something to be said for making small talk when it can make you blush so becomingly Elizabeth."
"You did not feel yourself to be uncomfortable then, I thought I perceived that you did."
"I must admit I did for one moment feel myself to be in danger, but was gratified to see that I was not alone in my suffering. I did in fact notice that my lovely wife to be was no less disturbed."
Elizabeth smiled and looked away, for the conversation was becoming far too intimate for the setting, but she could not stop herself from engaging him further on the subject.
"Am I to expect you to provoke me like this every time the weather is less than satisfactory?"
"If this is to be your reaction then I can assure you that I will try my best."
The only response Mr. Darcy received was a raised eyebrow, which was enough encouragement for him to continue.
"You have in fact set a dangerous precedent Elizabeth, for every time I see you even look at the sky or contemplate rain falling outside the window I shall know that you are in fact thinking of something else completely. I cannot say I dislike the idea. Indeed at this very moment dear Elizabeth there are few things more provoking to me than seeing rain dripping down a window pane."
The last was said in such a manner as to leave Elizabeth in absolutely no doubt as to Darcy's intentions in provoking her. She was not averse to discussing the subject further but it was impossible with her mother and sisters present.
"Well Mr. Darcy since you are so enamoured of the weather perhaps you would care to examine my father's library for some suitable literature on the subject."
Darcy looked both surprised and gratified.
"That is a most satisfactory idea, does your father keep anything of the kind?"
"He has several farming journals that contain the sort of information that interests you and I believe he also has a rather neglected copy of a book on cloud formations. Would you like me to show you, I believe he his out in the farm at present," she asked with a decided air of innocence
"I think that would suit my purposes admirably," Darcy replied, making absolutely no attempt to disguise his real intentions.
The couple left the room with Mrs. Bennet's eager blessing. Mary and Kitty agreed that the morning was rather dull. Mr. Darcy bored everyone stupid with talk of the weather and Lizzy was out of sorts. They had relieved everyone by retiring to the library and the company returned to a steady diet of idle chatter.
On entering his library later that morning, Mr. Bennet was most surprised to see his second daughter in the midst of a particularly amorous embrace with her fiancé. Seated firmly in his lap and seemingly in the midst of what could only be described as an exceedingly passionate kiss, the lovers were insensible of the intrusion. He immediately diverted his eyes and cleared his throat once, twice and then thrice in escalating volumes without managing to disturb the pair. Looking up to confirm that they had yet to fathom his presence, he had to readjust his eyeglasses to confirm what at first glance he had thought could not possibly be true. But there was the evidence quite obviously before him. The gentleman's hand was most definitely upon his daughter's breast and at that very moment his fingers were in fact in the process of creeping below the muslin covering the same.
"MR DARCY!"
No matter how clouded their senses where by passion, neither could have failed to hear Mr. Bennet's shouted exclamation. A hasty separation was attempted but with very little success, for Elizabeth's hands were quite firmly caught underneath Mr. Darcy's tight fitting waistcoat and the gentleman's fingers could not be easily extracted without threat of exposure.
Mr. Bennet could have averted his eyes at this particularly awkward scene, but he would not forgo such a humorous display even for his favourite daughter's sake. If she would allow herself to get in such a predicament she must bear with being laughed at. When the separation was finally made however, he hid his mirth behind an implacable facade.
"Well Elizabeth what is your explanation for this behaviour?" he asked in his sternest voice
His daughter said the first thing that came into her distracted mind, which when she considered it later was possibly the stupidest thing she had ever said in her life.
"Papa, Mr. Darcy was interested in one of your books."
Mr. Bennet frowned with determination, and turned away to hide the smile that threatened to give away his amusement.
"Interested in one of my books was he? Well I am glad you clarified that for me Elizabeth, else I might have continued to labour under the impression that he was more interested in something else. I had assumed that he lured you here for more nefarious purposes but since you assure me that I am quite wrong I am greatly relieved."
Elizabeth cleared her throat and looked uncomfortably at Darcy, for her father's comment had hit remarkably close to the mark. A heavy silence hung in the air. She could think of nothing sensible to say after the stupidity of her first attempt and Darcy was still not master enough of himself to think clearly let alone speak.
"Did you have some trouble finding the bookcase then, Elizabeth?"
Darcy seeing Elizabeth's distress, roused himself and intervened
"Sir, the fault is mine. I did ask her in here, and yes my intentions in doing so were not purely literary."
Mr. Bennet was vastly amused by this comment but resolved to reflect on it later. The current situation required a certain degree of gravity and so he turned his attentions to the gentleman.
"Another time I might admire the honesty of your character but I find myself too shocked by your actions to give you credit for such noble attributes."
Darcy assumed an air of contrition he did not feel. He would prefer to reproach himself for his behaviour when he was more at leisure to think clearly, but under the circumstances he had to allow Elizabeth's father an opportunity to berate him.
"I fully understand sir, my actions were unpardonable and I apologise for offending your daughter and yourself."
At this point Elizabeth opened her mouth to speak and Mr. Bennet suspecting that her words would be in defense of her lover, silenced her before any pleas could be offered.
"You may leave now Elizabeth. I believe you have contributed all you can to this discussion and anything further shall be between Mr. Darcy and myself."
Elizabeth could do little but turn on her heel and leave at such a dismissal from her father, casting one last look at Mr. Darcy in the process.
Mr. Bennet allowed a significant pause before speaking again. There were few memorable moments in his life, but this would have to be one of them and he was determined to enjoy it as much as he could. To have the proud and imposing Mr. Darcy standing before him like a naughty schoolboy was a situation that promised much satisfaction. With his attention now on the errant gentleman, he detected that he did not look particularly submissive.
"Well Mr. Darcy what excuses have you to offer."
"I make no excuses Mr. Bennet I have apologised to you and your daughter and I have nothing further to add."
By the shortness of his replies and the implacable tone of his voice Mr. Bennet got the distinct impression that the gentleman was allowing this lecture as a matter of form. In fact he looked decidedly unrepentant and more annoyed at having to endure the conversation. This detracted somewhat from Mr. Bennet's pleasure but he was still not quite ready to let him off completely.
"As I am sure you will one day appreciate Mr. Darcy, no man ever likes to see his daughter in such a position, no matter how close she is to her wedding day. Such things are better left for the privacy of one's own bedroom."
"Yes sir."
"Having a younger sister you will no doubt understand my position more fully when she is of an age to have gentleman pursuing her."
Mr. Bennet perceived that this comment seemed to have made more of an impression on the gentleman for he detected a hint of anger overtake his seemingly calm countenance. He did not venture any comment however and so Mr. Bennet, frustrated by his failed attempts to disconcert Darcy, offered the obligatory warnings.
"I realise that you only have two days until you are married but I would encourage you to be more circumspect. My Lizzy has always been a fearless girl, I trust that you will not take advantage of that in her nature which may make her more adventurous than is good for her."
"I will endeavour to master my impulses."
"I suppose this is the penalty of her making you wait so long. Well, well, at least I have the security of knowing that my daughter appears to love you. I could have been quite happy to have it not so graphically demonstrated though."
"Yes Sir."
There were a few moments of silence as Darcy considered whether this was to be the end of the lecture and Mr. Bennet considered how to punish the gentleman for such impertinence.
"Will that be all sir?"
"Only one more thing Mr. Darcy" he said looking him determinedly in the eye." Would you care to explain to me this sudden interest in the weather?"
Darcy reddened and looked almost angry. "Not really sir" he replied tersely
Mr. Bennet smiled in seeing that he had finally managed to disconcert Darcy and sat back in his chair, well pleased with the interview
"Very well off you go then," he chuckled.
Darcy bowed and hastily left the room, not pausing as he left the house. He was angry at himself more than anything, for his actions had been hasty, uncontrolled and completely impulsive. It was so unlike him and then to suffer the mortification of being called onto the carpet for his behaviour. Why on earth did he suddenly feel like Bingley?
As the party, minus Mr. Darcy, reconvened around the dinner table some time later, Mrs. Bennet was effusive in decrying Mr. Darcy's behaviour that morning. Her comments were addressed primarily to her husband who responded in kind whilst keeping an eye on his second daughter's reactions .
"What can he mean by coming all this way in the rain and then insist on discussing the weather all morning."
"He is a farmer my dear, he has a right to talk of such things. His income is dependent on it as much as ours is."
"I am mightily glad that Lizzy saw fit to take him off to the library. I thought I should go spare with all that talk of sleet, snow and ice. What do I care of the rainfall in Derbyshire?"
Mr. Bennet looked at his daughter and raised an eyebrow
"Yes we must thank Lizzy for dragging him off like that, very generous of her. Perhaps next time you venture there you should spend a little time studying barometrics Lizzy so that you are never short of conversation?"
Lizzy stared at her father in open-mouthed horror. Something in his tone gave her the impression that not only had he caught them in the library, but that he was privy to all that had passed between Darcy and herself that morning in the drawing room. Her mortification at being so exposed in front of him knew no bounds, and then to have him tease her in such a way simply exacerbated the feeling.
Mrs. Bennet was not finished with her expostulations on his behaviour and continued in the same manner.
"He might be rich and handsome Lizzy but I must say he is rather dull. Better you than me my dear for I cannot think of anything more dreary than being shut alone at Pemberley and discussing the weather all night long."
Elizabeth blushed furiously but made no comment. After the tumultuous events of the day the idea rather had its merits at the moment.
Posted on Friday, 3 May 2002
Not surprisingly, on the eve of her wedding Elizabeth Bennett awoke with some trepidation as to the possibilities for the day. The previous two days had shown her a side to her fiancé that she had not known existed, and although she did not find his attentions at all distasteful, his rapid advancement from hand holding to intimate embraces left her a little breathless. Indeed Elizabeth was at a loss to comprehend how he had suddenly taken it into his head, or more likely into his hands, to proceed in such a manner. She had spent much of the previous night, after yet another lecture from her mother, going over the conversation that had prompted their compromising embrace the previous morning. She could not account for it, Darcy had certainly been more determined to engage her in the discussion which led up to that fateful encounter, but she was not entirely blameless either.
Actually when she thought more about it, she realized that they had not discussed anything else. He had arrived, sat in silence, talked of the weather to her mother and then decidedly provoked her into inviting him for a private interlude in her father's study where they had been discovered. He had left shortly after with not a single word to her or anyone else. She had no knowledge of what had passed between her father and her future husband and so was at a loss as to when she was to see him again and how she was to approach him when the encounter took place. If her father had been angry enough to dismiss him from the house then it was probable that she may not even see him today, nor before she walked to the alter tomorrow. Not a particularly good way to begin their married life!
With these thoughts weighing on her mind, she found it difficult to rouse herself. Her bed was probably not the best place for this sort of contemplation though, for it suggested too many other thoughts which although pleasurable were a little frightening in light of recent events and her mother's lecture on the conjugal embrace. An idle mind was the devil's playground after all. Why on earth was she suddenly remembering all of Mary's expostulations?
At Netherfield, Mr. Darcy was already up and about. There was no such mystery for him, for he was remarkably lucid on why he had behaved in such a manner. Having tasted a sample of Elizabeth's passion he had since found the inducement to be rather overwhelming. If an analogy was to be used, having taken a bite of the cherry, he was now anxious to consume a whole bowl. It was with some small degree of comfort that he considered himself fortunate in not having kissed her earlier, for if his current behaviour was to be the result, he felt sure that Elizabeth would never have arrived at the alter intact.
In light of current events however, he harboured some doubts as to whether she was still planning on keeping their appointment for the morrow at all. Thus amends were required and he set about addressing this most grievous concern. A letter was written and dispatched with only Mr. Bingley to watch over his writing (Miss Bingley was not an early riser) and now it was a matter of waiting.
Mr. Darcy had never been a patient man.
On arriving in the breakfast room, Elizabeth's anxiety was relieved almost immediately. For waiting at her usual place setting was a letter addressed to herself, in Mr. Darcy's unmistakably concise and distinct handwriting. Her father being the only other early riser in the family, she found herself in the rather uncomfortable position of holding in her hands a letter quite obviously from her lover, which was more than likely placed there by her father. She sat staring at it for some moments, painfully aware that he was watching, while she deliberated about what to do. To excuse herself to read the letter in privacy implied it contained improper sentiments, reading it in front of him without exposing herself in some way would be extremely difficult, and putting it aside until after breakfast was impossible for she was in an agony about what it contained.
"Well Lizzy aren't you going to open your letter. I thought you would be curious as to what your Mr. Darcy has to say for himself this early in the morning"
"Papa" she pleaded but Mr. Bennet was in a mood for teasing and could not resist some amusement at his favourite daughters expense.
"I am rather surprised that he did not come in person. He came yesterday in the pouring rain and here we have a fine sunny day and he is content to stay at home and write letters to my as yet unmarried daughter. Very intriguing young man."
Unable to ignore the import of her father's words Elizabeth frowned and put the letter aside, noting her father's satisfied smile.
"I had thought your Mr. Darcy was more of a stickler for the proprieties Lizzy. I am very happy to find that he is as rash and impulsive as Wickham."
Elizabeth winced at the comparison, but could not refute it. To even attempt it would be hypocritical and futile. She was uncomfortable with the thought and as often happens this illusion gave way to others equally unpleasant. For as Mr. Darcy's accomplice, she was by comparison, no better than ... urghhh ... her sister Lydia.
Noting his daughter's silence and increasing discomfort Mr. Bennet took pity on her.
"Do not concern yourself my child, as terrible as it is for me to admit it, you know my sensibilities regarding anything that bears affinity to the ridiculous. I am more amused than annoyed, and with your wedding only two days away I can forgive a man some impatience."
"Thank you papa but..." Elizabeth replied but was cut off before she could finish her thought.
"No, No Lizzy do not attempt to defend him to me. He has assured me that the blame is all on his side so let the matter rest. His sending you letters right under my nose simply confirms it. Allow an old man the pleasure of thinking he still has his daughters loyalty, just for this last day at least"
She reached out and pressed his hand
"I would not have you thinking ill of him Papa. I know you dislike him and I am afraid this will only make matters worse"
"On the contrary, I find that I like your Mr. Darcy prodigiously. He shows an uncommon amount of good taste in choosing to fall in love with you, against his better judgment I might add, and even more good sense in asking you to be his wife. Aside from that he has other talents which I have only recently discovered. He is now so far elevated in my opinion that he has attained a level of respect that I rarely have the pleasure of feeling."
Elizabeth would have queried the reasons for such a miraculous change of opinion but any further conversation was interrupted by the arrival of Jane. As always Jane's agreeable presence was a welcome relief to the previously uncomfortable discussion, and Elizabeth was able to eat without too much more vexation.
Mr. Bennet delighted in the opportunity of sharing his breakfast with his two most sensible daughters, whilst refusing to dwell on the fact that it would be his last opportunity to do so. He was not insensible of the fact that without Jane and Elizabeth, such occasions would be marked by undiluted silliness, with an occasional sermon thrown in by Mary for good measure. As much as he enjoyed the moment however, on hearing a noise on the stairs outside even he could not be induced to tarry longer. Kissing them both on the forehead he assured them that they would both be very happy and not to think for a minute of his suffering.
Elizabeth perceived that her father was upset, there was a telling dampness about his eyes, and at that moment, she did not feel the gravity of the occasion any less so. He retired to the library before any unnecessary fuss could be made and was just in time to miss the entry of Mrs. Bennet followed closely by Kitty. After the intimacy of sharing her breakfast with her father, and her beloved Jane, Elizabeth had no desire to mark the occasion of her last day at home with her mother, and so excused herself with her letter hidden in her skirts.
On reaching the relative privacy of the garden, Elizabeth was at last free to set her curiosity and anxiety to rest. On opening the letter she detected a single sheet written closely through in the unmistakably concise lettering of Mr. Darcy, and the following is what it contained.
My Dearest Elizabeth,I hope that I still have the right to address you as such after the events of yesterday. I can only apologize again for my ungentlemanlike behaviour, and trouble your just and compassionate heart for forgiveness. Indeed, you would be generous in providing it in light of the grave injustice I inflicted by such inappropriate advances on your person yesterday morning. Having always prided myself on the strength of my self control, my only excuse is, that in dealing intimately with you I find myself beyond the realms of my own self-knowledge. I can only ask again that you be gentle in your retribution. My fear is that I have shocked you, my greatest despair is that I have frightened you with the strength of my admiration. If you can find it in your heart to bestow that forgiveness, I will endeavour to restrain my affections to a more acceptable level, difficult though it may be.
I hesitate to ask an additional favour without your approbation of the first, but if you can be so generous as to forgive me, may I trouble you for a further concession. My sister Georgiana has arrived at Netherfield, and is impatient to see you before the wedding. I am anxious to provide her with better company than she finds here presently. I fear that a disappointed spinster, an indolent married couple and two very impatient bachelors, are not the most pleasing companions. Indeed I can hardly blame her for these sentiments and I cannot deny that I am impatient for your company as well.
If you can find it in your heart to venture forth you will be relieving my mind, and needless to say my heart, of a considerable weight. I will fully understand if such an excursion is not possible, for I have no doubt that your father would harbour some resistance to the idea of entrusting you to my company. If this is to be the case then I will be waiting for you in eager anticipation and hope, at ten O'clock tomorrow morning.
I will offer to send the carriage for you, which I know as a matter of form you will refuse, being such a lovely day, but please send word if you require it.
Most affectionately yours,
F.D.
PS: Mr. Bingley has just imposed on me to invite your sister Jane also, and naturally begs forgiveness for doing this, but feels he his amply justified in making this request by your knowledge of his abilities (or lack thereof) as a scribe. Personally I feel it is unaccountable laziness on his part but I shall reserve my judgment in the hope that it my throw you into a more forgiving mood.
Elizabeth read it through again and then laughed at the most singularly absurd letter she had ever received. How could he interpret such a pleasurable experience as they had shared as a 'grave injustice inflicted by such inappropriate advances on her person'. From all appearances he had spent a considerable time studying for words of four syllables and had almost outdone his self recrimination with verbosity. How he had got it into his head that she had been offended by his behaviour in the first place was beyond her imagination. Was not her response to his kisses approbation enough? And she certainly had no intention of allowing him to restrain his affections. Neatly folding the letter she went in search of Jane.
On arriving at Netherfield, Elizabeth was amused to see Mr. Darcy pacing the lawn in front of the house. To the innocent observer it may have appeared to be a leisurely amble, but Elizabeth noted that in the time that it took them to walk up the drive, he had traversed the same stretch of grass no less than four times, whilst looking determinedly at his boots. Having mentioned something of the events of the previous day to her rather shocked sister, Jane diplomatically ventured immediately into the house in search of Mr. Bingley, leaving Elizabeth to approach the preoccupied gentleman alone.
"Good Morning, Mr. Darcy"
"Miss Bennet" he cried in surprise looking up "I hope you are well" he stammered
"Very well I thank you, may I walk with you" she replied, amused at this sudden reversion to formality
"Certainly" Darcy offered her his arm, considerably relieved by the warmth of her greeting and the smile that she bestowed on him, not to mention the fact that she was actually there. They walked in silence for some minutes until they were beyond the view of the house. Darcy was still too anxious to think of anything sensible to say and Elizabeth was waiting for him to begin. As it appeared that he was not intending to do so, she took the initiative of breaking the silence.
"I was surprised by your invitation this morning"
"I hope you don't mind, my sister was very eager to see you before the wedding" he replied without thinking
"Oh your sister was very eager was she. What about her brother Mr. Darcy?" she asked with some amusement. This had the desired affect of bringing a smile to his face.
"I am always eager to see you Miss Bennett" he replied kissing her hand
She smiled at this gesture and said impishly
"I thought my father might have scared you off yesterday"
"As you know I am not a man who is easily intimidated" he turned to look at her in earnest "I was afraid that I had frightened you off Elizabeth. Can you ever forgive me? My behaviour was so far beyond the definition of what is acceptable that I cannot think about it but to reproach myself"
"Too much self-reproach is bad for the health Mr. Darcy and if you require forgiveness it shall be granted."
She paused for a moment to take in his relieved smile
"Your behaviour has changed my mind about something though" she continued
Darcy stopped walking and looked at her in desperate alarm.
"Please do not tell me you will not marry me Elizabeth. I promise to restrain myself even after we are married"
"Oh dear, I think that would actually be worse for your health than self-reproach. What I meant was that at the risk of sounding unladylike and even though I have previously confessed a contrary opinion, I actually rather like it when you behave in an ungentlemanlike manner"
Darcy on comprehending her meaning scarcely knew how to look. He was relieved, flattered and yes more than a little encouraged by her words, but was afraid to look at her for fear that her fine eyes would invite him to bestow those attentions that had previously got him into such trouble. In a Herculean effort of restraint he limited himself to kissing her hand again and continued the walk. If Elizabeth's frown was one of disappointment he did not see it.
Having relieved his anxieties, Darcy suggested they relieve his sister of hers and so they ventured into the house. The picture that presented itself in the drawing room was exactly as he had described in his letter, and she almost laughed aloud at his perspicacity. Mr. and Mrs. Hurst lolled about idly, Miss Bingley walked purposefully about the room carrying a look of determined displeasure, and the two gentlemen hovered about their respective fiancé's displaying a level of attentiveness rarely seen in fashionable circles. If he would describe such behaviour as impatience, she could not disagree. Amongst this bizarre group of hopes and disappointments sat Georgiana, looking very much as Darcy had described her, not at all happy and anxious to be amongst more pleasing company. On sighting Elizabeth she leapt to her feet and impulsively embraced her soon to be sister.
"Oh Elizabeth I am so glad that you are here" she exclaimed with genuine feeling
Elizabeth could not reply to this in the manner she would have wished without offending much of the assembled company and so satisfied herself with a smile and returning the embrace with an unaffected display of what sisterly feeling should be. Miss Bingley and Mrs. Hurst looked on in curiosity as if it were an idea that had never occurred to them and Mr. Darcy smiled with real pleasure.
The usual pleasantries were made, some with more feeling than others, and refreshments served to the visitors. Elizabeth seated herself beside Georgiana and engaged her in a pleasant conversation on her recent visit to London, not unaware that most of this conversation was attended to in silence by Miss Bingley. She was not afraid of her spitefulness, but she was concerned for Georgiana, and so concentrated her efforts on keeping the subjects of the conversation on her interests. There was only so much that Elizabeth could do in moderating the conversation however, and with the wedding of her brother foremost on Georgiana's mind, it was only natural that she should want to express her satisfaction with the event that was to take place.
"You have made William so happy Elizabeth. I am so glad that you finally agreed to marry him"
Elizabeth blanched, for this was exactly the kind of thing she had been trying to avoid. Naturally Miss Bingley could not let such a comment go unanswered and exclaimed with what she perceived to be humour
"Oh dear Georgiana, how naive you are! She was hardly likely to refuse a gentleman of your brother's worth. Such men do not pass through Meryton every day of the week you know"
Georgiana looked in embarrassment at Elizabeth, who was watching a very irritated Darcy out of the corner of her eye. She opened her mouth to reply to Georgiana but was silenced by Mr. Darcy's implacable tones.
"Actually Miss Bingley she did refuse me when I first proposed and I cannot blame her for doing so. If she had accepted me on the terms we were on at the time her motives would have been nothing but mercenary"
Bingley seeing the displeasure in Darcy's face and sensing the general discomfort of the group weighed into the conversation with a laughing comment
"If I recall Darcy I believe you told me that you 'courted Miss Bennet with a degree of offensiveness rarely seen amongst ardent suitors'. "
Elizabeth laughed at this and looked at Darcy who was still staring with a considerable degree of contempt at Miss Bingley
"Yes he did, but I must admit his manners did improve considerably with his second attempt" she replied
Miss Bingley appeared to quite shocked by this revelation and having missed the last few comments could only repeat several times
"Mr. Darcy proposed and you said no"
Elizabeth perceiving that this question seemed to be directed at her although aired to the room in general, thought it best to answer.
"Yes I did Miss Bingley. When a man tells you that he loves you and is determined to marry you despite all his own better judgment, sometimes it is best to say no, for it would surely lead to severe disappointment later"
Seeing a glimmer of hope in the revelation Miss Bingley turned her attention on the gentleman
"Mr. Darcy it must have been a terrible shock for you. I am surprised at your forbearance in weathering such ill-treatment"
By this stage of the conversation Darcy was really angry. Apart from having to endure an open discussion of his private affairs, he had not failed to notice the tone of Miss Bingley's question. As reluctant as he was to continue the conversation he was determined to silence her forever on this subject.
"I am very happy that she did refuse me. If she had accepted me out of pure disintredness we should have both suffered for it. I found on reflection that I did not know her at all nor did I care what her feelings were. I will not deny that I suffered because of Miss Elizabeth's rejection but I believe that she has taught me the difference between possession and love"
The last was said with such finality that Darcy had anticipated that it would be the end of the discussion. He engaged Mr. Bingley in conversation on other matters with the anticipation that Elizabeth would be able to resume her conversation with his sister.
But he had underestimated the bitterness of a romantically disappointed woman. With Darcy otherwise occupied she now turned her attention to Elizabeth with the intent of injury
"Miss Eliza you have by now realised Mr. Darcy is a man who always gets what he wants, indeed I do not know anyone who so enjoys the power of having their own way. I hope you keep that in mind and can always be so satisfied with your conquest"
The subtle viciousness of this comment surprised Elizabeth, for she undoubtedly intended to sow some seeds of doubt as to the nature of their relationship and Darcy's motivation in pursuing her. Having no inclination to continue such a conversation, especially in front of Georgiana, she answered as best she could.
"I do not mistake your meaning Miss Bingley. I understand Mr. Darcy's temperament and I am actually rather thankful for it. Had he not been so determined I may have missed the opportunity of knowing him better and being able to love him in return. If he is a man who always gets what he wants I am more than satisfied with the knowledge that it was me that he wanted."
Miss Bingley was left to all the satisfaction of having forced her to say what gave no-one pain but herself. Elizabeth feeling the closeness of the room proposed to Georgiana a walk in the garden.
The rest of the day was spent divided into two distinct parties. The Darcy's and Elizabeth spent much of the day outside or in the library, and the Bingley's occupied the drawing room. Elizabeth felt a little guilty about leaving Jane to the mercy of Bingley's sisters but her generosity as to unpleasant relatives only went so far. As Darcy had enough of his own that she had yet to deal with, she felt it best to save her patience for another time.
It was later in the afternoon when Georgiana had retired to her room that Darcy and Elizabeth took the opportunity of stretching their legs again. Both were mindful of the fact that this was probably their last meeting before the wedding and one of their all too infrequent opportunities of being alone together. Elizabeth was still concerned about the fact that he seemed intent on restraining his affections and Darcy ever mindful of the fact that it was becoming increasingly difficult to do so.
"I hope Miss Bingley did not upset you earlier Elizabeth" he began as they walked across the lawn
"Hardly, I think she only succeeded in upsetting herself which is always very satisfying"
They walked on in silence for some time before Darcy looked at her and asked
"Are you happy Elizabeth?"
"I can't say that I am unhappy but I know that tomorrow I shall be happier. I am a little tired is all I did not get much sleep last night"
"Yes, I slept very ill myself" he agreed
Elizabeth smiled and looked down
"As I think it unlikely that you would have been forced to sit through a lecture on propriety by Mr. Bingley I suspect that my reasons for sleeplessness are a little different to yours."
Darcy looked confused
"My mother managed to find out about our behaviour and accosted me in my bedroom. I was up quite late re-learning my lessons on lady-like conduct"
"Oh I see"
Elizabeth suspected that she saw a blush on his cheeks
"Might I enquire what kept you awake sir?"
Darcy did not reply immediately and seemed distracted He could not tell her the truth without lapsing into impropriety again and so opted for an answer that he felt sure she would not pursue further.
"Only if you will tell me the details of your lecture" he replied with an air of mischief
Elizabeth exclaimed and laughed
"Mr. Darcy I am shocked, but I will oblige you for I have nothing to hide and I am curious as to what disturbs your sleep"
"Are you really Elizabeth? Well you better tell me what your mother said then" he replied in surprise
"I am afraid that she thought that I had taken the conjugal lecture I suffered through some days ago too much to heart so to speak. I was subjected to a revised edition that concentrated more on how I should behave rather than the logistics of the matter. It was all terribly dry and boring I assure you"
"I see" was his only reply for Darcy suddenly thought better of the wisdom of discussing such topics with his very soon to be, but not quite, wife
"I believe it is your turn now sir. What kept you awake last night"
Turning towards her he took her hands in his and resolutely looked her in the eye, determined to show her that he could be trusted to behave himself.
"Unfortunately it is not uncommon at the moment but I am hoping that it will be put to an end tomorrow. You see Elizabeth it was many hours before I could close my eyes without imaging you before me"
Elizabeth found herself a little disquieted with the intimacy of this revelation, and seeing Darcy was still bent on restraint, she was very tempted to kiss him right there in the middle of the lawn. Glancing over Darcy's shoulder at the house, to see if they were being watched, she happened to notice Miss Bingley standing at the window watching this quite innocent but private interlude with an interest that bordered on voyeurism. It was too much. In a fit of determination that was not unlike her, Elizabeth decided that it was time to settle the matter of Darcy's interests, and this restraint of affection business once and for all. If a small revenge on the lady could be exacted at the same time, all the better.
Going against all her mother's best advice and all her own knowledge on ladylike behaviour, she stood on her toes and kissed a surprised Darcy quite firmly on the mouth. Never being one to miss an opportunity, Elizabeth soon found to her satisfaction that Mr. Darcy actively assisted in this little charade, until she forgot to think at all. When he finally released her it was some minutes before her scattered thoughts collected themselves enough to remember why she had initiated the kiss in the first place. Even after this extended delay, the look of shocked horror on Caroline Bingley's face was worth any regrets she might have had over her own wanton behaviour.
"Was that something your mother lectured you on last night Elizabeth?" Darcy asked with no small degree of humour
"I think she mentioned something about actively encouraging my husbands affections, but if I remember correctly it was more in the negative"
Darcy raised his eyebrows
"As you can see I was never very good at lessons. Practical self-instruction is my preferred method of learning"
"I am very glad to hear it, for I assure you I do not find anything wanting in your application Miss Bennet"
"You are not offended then sir, I was assured that it was very improper to behave in such a way"
"Definitely not. At the risk of sounding eager I would encourage you to defy all your mothers instructions as often as you like. Has she offered you any other pearls of wisdom that I may correct you on?"
"You are interested in the education of young ladies then?" she asked in all seriousness
"I am very interested in the education of my future wife. Indeed any misinformation she has been given I would like to clarify as soon as possible" he replied just as seriously
In a move that was inspired by nothing but pure affection, Elizabeth again pressed her lips to his and found that he was not at all averse to her defying her mother's instructions either.